We all love a DIY project, but putting up a shelf or some flat-pack furniture is a bit different to a custom built fitted wardrobe. If you’re considering taking on the challenge yourself, and debating DIY vs professionally fitted wardrobes here are some of the pros and cons to weigh up before you make your decision.

DIY Fitted Wardrobe Install – Pros

#1 Less expensive

The lack of labour costs mean that you will naturally make a large saving compared to a professional installer.

Though this relates to cash payments only and does not take into account how much you value your time. The cost saving versus given up your time, and the value you place on this, will be a key factor in the decision particularly if you’re working full-time. How many weekends and evenings are you happy to give up as the price?

#2 Satisfaction

When you construct something yourself, there is always a great sense of achievement that goes with it. Choosing to build and fit your own fitted wardrobes is no small task and something that you will gain much satisfaction from when completed.

You can already sense the pride of showing off your handiwork to your partner and family! And of course, you’ll then be able to sit back afterwards and gloat about your efforts and the costs saved.

#3 100% Bespoke

By building the fitted wardrobe yourself, you can take the time to source the materials, designing it and constructing it exactly as you have in mind.

There is no need to work to others designs or compromise on material options. The world is your oyster!

DIY Fitted Wardrobe Install – Cons

#1 Stress!

Some of us are better than others when it comes to DIY, but a disadvantage of taking it on yourself is dealing with the stress if it doesn’t exactly go to plan.

To construct and install the wardrobe correctly, you will need patience to deal with the finer details and any unforeseen issues.

If only all walls and floors were level ;0).

#2 Time

As with any DIY project, we have to sacrifice our own spare time. If you don’t have a lot of experience this is going to take up more of your time, as you will have to research how to do everything.

It’s also likely that you may make a few mistakes along the way that could take more time to rectify.

#3 Potential poor quality of finish

Constructing a fitted wardrobe yourself, you’ll need the knowledge to identify the correct materials and design it so that it will be structurally sound; while also having the skills to install it correctly. We’ve all carried out our own DIY project to then spend a LOT of time, spotting those little ‘snags’ that seem to then haunt us.

However fitted wardrobes are there to be used, and therefore need to perform functionally as well as aesthetically. Being a permanent, integrated structure, with a high frequency of use you will also need to ensure your skills are capable enough of ensuring the structure

#4 Cost of Tools

Most professional fitters are joiners by trade, who have built up a reliable toolbox over time that they know they need to complete an install to a high standard.

You may not need top of the range tools, however you will need a wide range to fulfill the job or the ability to borrow or hire them.

Professionally Fitted Wardrobe – Pros

#1 Expertise

If you choose a professional fitter, then not only do you gain their expertise in dealing with ‘tricky’ installs but also the wealth of knowledge they have which can help you design the perfect space for your requirements.

One of the most common mistakes that DIY enthusiasts make is when measuring. When it comes to fitted wardrobe materials this can be very costly and so having an expert to rely on, can be worth their price alone.

And when it comes to small spaces, awkward gaps, coving, electrics and uneven floors, a professional fitter can quickly solve these issues while making sure you end up with a professional finish and functional fitted wardrobe.

#2 Guarantees

Found that one of your doors isn’t quite working properly or another small ‘snag’. No need to worry about fixing yourself or having to accept not being happy with the finish.

Most professional fitters will offer to correct snagging and a guarantee on parts. So do ask them at the point of purchase to ensure you understand what is covered.

For e.g. at Millers we offer a 5 year guarantee on all wardrobe frames, internals and doors.

#3 Simplicity of the process

When you choose to work with a professional fitter, there will be no need to work with suppliers to source materials, store them and then wait until you have time to fit them. In fact, you could, with some simpler designs, have a newly fitted wardrobe installed in as little as six weeks.

Design and layouts, measurements and install are all normally included as part of using a professional fitter.

Could it be any simpler?

#4 Finance Options

You may be able to use credit cards or alternative finances for your materials when opting for a DIY install, a professional fitter will normally be able offer finance.

For e.g. at Miller’s we can offer 10 months 0% finance subject to eligibility and this is applicable to the full cost of your fitted wardrobes – labour and materials.

#5 Greater Options

Purchasing materials and understanding the difference in quality and finish can be a minefield when embarking upon a DIY project.

When using a professional they have access to a much wider range of suppliers and know what they can source where to ensure that your build is of high quality but that you can also achieve the style and design that you’d like.

Professionally Fitted Wardrobe – Cons

#1 Increased Costs

There’s no avoiding the fact that if you hire someone to install your fitted wardrobes, then you will incur a greater cost than doing it yourself.

For a simple wardrobe design our own labour costs account for around a third of a fitted wardrobe cost (£600) though will increase upwards depending on complexity of internal storage and overall design.

DIY vs Professionally Fitted Wardrobes: Which is Best?

If you are an experienced DIY Enthusiast with lots of time to spare, then saving the cost of a professional fitter may be the main reason you choose to do-it-yourself. However, if you aren’t confident in your abilities, tools or just want to ensure that you end up with fitted wardrobes exactly as how visualise for years to come, like many buying decisions it can be better to just pay the price for a professional fitter.

Either way, both methods have their pros and cons and the final decision will come down to your individual circumstances.